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Open Enrollment Underway For Oregon Health Insurance

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Friday, Nov. 1 marked the start of open enrollment for 2025 private health insurance, a vital time for people in Oregon to secure health insurance for the year ahead. Open enrollment, the exclusive period when individuals can shop, compare and enroll in health plans, runs through Jan. 15, 2025.

Individuals who enroll by Dec. 15, 2024, will receive coverage starting on Jan. 1, 2025. Those who enroll by Jan. 15, 2025, will have coverage starting Feb. 1, 2025.

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace provides comprehensive health plans from trusted private insurance companies. All plans cover essential needs, such as preventive care, vaccines, emergency services, maternity and pediatric care. Local experts are available, at no cost, to help individuals living in Oregon compare plans, identify financial assistance options, and explore additional benefits, including expanded assistance through the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

“We know health insurance can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to guide you every step of the way,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “With expanded financial assistance options available, you may be eligible for cost savings. With free help available in over 60 languages and both in-person and virtual support, our partners statewide can help you determine your cost savings and to find the right plan for you and your family.”

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace continues to address the needs of entrepreneurs, uninsured individuals, those who recently lost their Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or COBRA coverage, and an estimated 55,000 former OHP recipients who are now potentially eligible for Marketplace coverage. Additionally, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients can now enroll in health plans through the Marketplace.

Individuals who are looking for health coverage should visit OregonHealthCare.gov to use a newly updated Window Shopping tool. This tool allows people in Oregon to preview the coverage, plans and savings available to them. This year’s tool enhancements also include information about coverage for gender-affirming care, a benefit included in all Marketplace plans for 2025.

“Through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, we’re working to ensure that all people living in Oregon, regardless of background or income, have access to affordable, high-quality health care,” said Director of the Oregon Health Authority, Dr. Sejal Hathi. “Our health insurance marketplace is a key part of OHA’s broader initiative to eliminate health inequities by 2030. Achieving health equity means creating a system where everyone can reach their full health potential without being disadvantaged by race, ethnicity, language, gender identity, or other social factors. By addressing historical and current injustices, we are working to build a more equitable future for all individuals across our state.”

Financial assistance is available to 80% of people who enroll through the Marketplace. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov to explore your options and get covered.